The Canadian Carwash Association Celebrates a Milestone Anniversary

The Canadian Carwash Association (CCA) has played a vital role in advancing the carwash industry since its establishment in 1959. Originally founded as the Automatic Car Wash Association of Ontario, the organization has evolved into a national association providing members with valuable resources, industry insights, and networking opportunities. Its origins are credited to Ted Snyders, who drafted the constitution, rallied operators, and became the Charter President. The Association was incorporated in 1960, and Snyders’ legacy continued as he served as Executive Secretary for 32 years, dedicating his life to the industry.

The CCA’s history is marked by significant milestones. The first Canadian Automatic Car Wash Trade Seminar in 1963 set the stage for professional development and networking. In 1975, reflecting its national reach, the organization was renamed the Canadian Carwash Association with the motto “Clean Across Canada.” During the 1980s, the Association expanded its services, hosting its first trade fair in 1980 and establishing the prestigious Ted Snyders Achievement Award in 1981 to honor long-serving volunteers.

The 1990s saw further growth, including a partnership with Erb and Erb to develop an insurance program tailored to carwash operators. In 1997, the Association began endorsing Octane magazine and the CARWACS trade show, enhancing industry visibility. By the 2000s, CCA launched innovative initiatives, such as Wash Volume Reports in collaboration with Kent Group Ltd., providing members with exclusive market data. In 2011, the Association partnered with Leger Marketing to assess Canadians’ awareness of environmental impacts, leading to tools like the Getting Started Toolkit for operators in 2012.

Regional engagement also shaped CCA’s legacy. In 2001, the Western Canadian Chapter was established following the Octane Trade Show in Calgary, where a need for local representation became evident. Led by Nancy Schmautz and supported by industry volunteers, the chapter focused on advocacy, education, and community-building. It tackled regional issues, such as water usage regulations and zoning requirements, engaging with municipalities from Calgary to Vancouver to mitigate operational challenges.

The Western Chapter also fostered industry connections through events like the Car Wash Bus Tour, showcasing innovative facilities, and forums on maintenance and marketing. A notable highlight was a door seminar in Calgary, where competing companies collaborated for the first time, exemplifying the chapter’s unifying impact. Informal gatherings, like a barbecue turned garage party for industry experts in 2002, further cemented relationships among leaders.

By 2008, the Western Chapter reintegrated with the CCA’s head office, leaving a legacy of increased membership, advocacy successes, and professional development in Western Canada. Throughout its 65-year history, the CCA has consistently adapted to industry needs, offering programs, partnerships, and events that empower carwash operators nationwide.

As the CCA celebrates its 65th anniversary in 2025, it honors the dedication of its members, volunteers, and leaders who have built an enduring foundation for the industry. From pioneering trade seminars in the 1960s to regional chapters and modern market research, the CCA remains a cornerstone for carwash professionals committed to growth, innovation, and collaboration.

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Check out our CCA Past Presidents and  CCA History.

We have gone into our archives and put together the following slide shows (click on the links to view):

CCA Annual Golf Tournament: 2006 - 2011

CCA Annual Golf Tournament: 2012 - 2019

CCA Annual Golf Tournament: 2020 - 2024

CCA AGM: 2009 -2012

CARWACS & CCA Carwash Bus Tour: 2011 - 2024

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Here are some CCA highlights (as of May 26, 2025): 

Overview & Milestones

• The Canadian Carwash Association (CCA) is the only national organization dedicated exclusively to the Canadian carwash industry.
• The CCA is proud to be celebrating its 65th anniversary in 2025. The association was originally incorporated in Ontario on December 31, 1960, and became federally incorporated in 2015.
• The association was founded by industry pioneer Ted Snyders, who dedicated his life to advancing the carwash profession.

Leadership & Membership

• Since 1996, CCA has been led by 10 presidents. Karen Smith made history in 2020 as the association’s first female president, serving until 2025. She now continues to support the organization as Past President.
• The association is proud to recognize 11 operator and supplier members who have maintained membership for more than 15 years—a testament to the strength and value of the CCA community.
• On May 1, 2025, Michael Saunders, Service Coordinator – Canada at Mark VII Equipment, was named President for the 2025–2026 term.

Partnerships & Advocacy

• CCA has maintained a longstanding partnership with Octane Magazine and the CARWACS tradeshow since 1997, providing members with valuable exposure, education and networking opportunities.
• Since 2017, the CCA has partnered with the Canadian Federation of Independent Business (CFIB), Canada’s largest small business association. All CCA members receive CFIB membership as a built-in benefit.
• In 2020, during the pandemic, CCA launched the We Are Essential campaign to support recognition of the industry’s vital role. In 2024, CCA released Best Practices – Car Wash Water Use in response to the City of Calgary’s drought and water restrictions.

Member Benefits & Programs

• In 2006, the association introduced the Wash Volume Report in partnership with Kalibrate (formerly Kent Group). Now in its 19th year, it remains a valued benefit for members.
• The Getting Started Toolkit, launched in 2012 to assist new operators, is currently being updated to reflect evolving industry needs.
• A bi-weekly e-newsletter, produced in partnership with Multiview since 2015, keeps members informed with industry news and CCA updates.
• In 2025, the CCA is undergoing a process to launch a member-exclusive, comprehensive and customized insurance program tailored specifically to the car wash industry in Canada.

Events & Initiatives

• The Annual CCA Golf Tournament has been held since 2001, with proceeds supporting local charities. Most recently, funds have gone to the Canadian Spinal Research Organization (CSRO), CCA’s chosen charity.
• In 2023, the CCA launched Car Wash for a Cure, an annual fundraising initiative supporting spinal cord research.
• CCA began offering information webinars for both members and non-members in 2023, expanding access to valuable industry insights.
• In January 2025, the association entered a new partnership with Canadian Water Savings Inc., offering members 25% off installation of the Smart Valve™ to support water efficiency and cost savings.

Workplace Safety & Industry Support

• The CCA partnered in 2020 with Workplace Safety & Prevention Services (WSPS) to provide safety resources and webinars tailored to carwash operations in Ontario.